Elastomeric spring and methods of making same

ABSTRACT

A compression spring created from a preform made from an elastomer which is normally free of spring-like characteristics. The preform has an initial predetermined length defined by a longitudinal distance between first and second end portions joined by a mid-portion. The elastomer from which the preform is created has a molecular structure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elastic strain greater than 1.5 to 1. As a result of working the preform, the molecular structure, extending along at least the mid-portion, is oriented so as to transmute the preform into a curved elastomeric spring. Methods for making the elastomeric spring are also disclosed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to an elastomeric spring and,more particularly, to an elastomeric compression spring having anelongated, arcuate or curved configuration between opposed ends thereofand methods for making such a spring.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Compression springs manufactured from elastomer materials are well knownin the art. Rather than being curved, however, such springs typicallyhave a cylindrical shape and are directed to applications requiring veryhigh spring rates for absorbing substantial quantities of energy inapplications such as associated with the railcar industry. In addition,such known springs are designed to absorb energy directed axiallyagainst one or both ends of the spring.

Elongated compression springs which are curved have broad and variedapplications. They can be used singularly or in combination relative toeach other to absorb energy. Typically, with this type of spring, theload is generally applied to an apex of the curved spring and one orboth of the longitudinally spaced ends thereof are confined againstlongitudinal expansion.

It can be beneficial if the spring can be adjusted to affect the springrate. It is difficult to predict the exact conditions and stresses towhich such a spring will be subjected. The fatigue life of most curvedsprings, however, is generally limited, thus, increasing the requiredmaintenance of the apparatus with which the spring is arranged inoperable combination.

Depending upon their application, most curved springs are loaded notonly vertically but also by horizontal forces and torques in thelongitudinal vertical and transverse vertical planes. Such forces can begenerated in several different modes of operation which, again, arehighly dependent upon the particular spring application. Such horizontalforces and torques, however, have been known to cause the curved springto assume an “S” shaped configuration, a phenomena commonly referred toas “S-ing.” The stresses induced in the spring when this occurs can bequite high. To minimize “S-ing” in a curved spring, the stiffness of thespring has been known to be increased. This can, however, detrimentallyaffect spring performance.

In view of the above, and in accordance with the present invention,there is a continuing need and desire for an elongated compressionspring having an arcuate shape between opposed longitudinally spacedends of the spring.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the above, and in accordance with one aspect, there isprovided an elastomeric spring has first and second end portions joinedby a curved mid-portion. The spring is created from a preform formed ofan elastomer which is normally free of spring-like characteristics. Theelastomer from which the preform is created has a molecular structurealong with a ratio of plastic strain to elastic strain greater than 1.5to 1. The molecular structure of the elastomer, extending along alengthwise section of the mid-portion of the spring, is oriented in atleast one direction such that a predetermined spring rate is imparted tothe preform whereby transmuting the preform into the elastomeric spring.

In one form, the molecular structure of the elongated member is orientedas a result of working the preform. Moreover, in a preferred form, thespring rate of the spring can be varied by adjusting the longitudinaldistance between said first and second end portions, thus, promoting theversatility of the spring. Moreover, in another form, the cross-sectionof the mid-portion of the elongated member for the spring can be variedin configuration so as to alter the spring rate afforded by such spring.

The elastomeric spring further includes a pair of transversely spacedsides. In one form the sides of the elastomeric spring extend generallyparallel to each other and parallel to an elongated axis of the spring.In another form, a transverse distance between the sides of the spring,toward the mid-portion of the spring, is different from the transversedistance between the sides at the free end portions of the spring.

According to another aspect, there is provided an elastomeric springcreated from an elastomeric preform which is normally free ofspring-like characteristics. The elastomeric preform has an initialpredetermined length defined by a longitudinal distance between firstand second end portions joined by a mid-portion. The elastomer formingthe preform has a molecular structure along with a ratio of plasticstrain to elastic strain greater than 1.5 to 1. The molecular structure,extending along at least the mid-portion of the preform, is oriented asa result of longitudinally working the initial predetermined length ofthe preform by greater than 30% to 35% thereby allowing the preform totransmute into the elastomeric spring.

Preferably, the spring rate of the elastomeric spring can be varied topromote the versatility of the spring. In one form, the spring rate canbe varied by adjusting the distance between the opposed end portions.Alternatively, varying the configuration, including the cross-section ofthe mid-portion, of the preform will likewise afford variability in thespring rate.

Working of the preform can involve longitudinally stretching the initialpredetermined length of the preform by greater than about 30% to about35%. Alternatively, working the preform can involve folding the preformby bringing the end portions of the preform toward each other a distancesufficient to reduce the initial predetermined length of the preform bygreater than about 30% to about 35%.

According to another aspect, there is provided a curved elastomericspring having longitudinally spaced first and second end portions joinedby an arcuate mid-portion and wich is created from an elastomericpreform which is free of spring-like characteristics and has a molecularstructure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elastic strain greaterthan 1.5 to 1. The spring has a central axis with a compression areaarranged to one side of the axis and a tension area arranged to anopposed side of the axis. The molecular structure of the spring isoriented, in at least one direction as a result of working the preformin a manner imparting spring-like characteristics to predeterminedsections of the preform used to form the elastomeric spring.

One of the many advantages afforded by the spring being that the springrate can be modified. In one form, changing the longitudinal distancebetween the first and second end portions of the spring modifies thespring rate. In another form, changing the configuration of the spring,including changing the mid-portion of the spring, can change the springrate. The spring has a pair of transversely spaced sides. Changing thetransverse distance between the spring sides, especially in themid-portion of the spring, can also serve to change the spring rate.

The elastomer preform from which the spring is created has an initialpredetermined size. The preform can take either an elongated strip formor a generally cylindrical-like tube form. Working of the preforminvolves compressing the initial predetermined size of the preform bygreater than 30% to 35% to orient the molecular structure in at leastone of the compression and tension areas of the spring. Alternatively,working of the preform involves elongating the initial predeterminedsize of the preform by greater than 30% to 35% to orient the molecularstructure in at least one of the compression and tension areas of thespring.

According to still another aspect, there is provided a method of makinga curved compression spring comprising the steps of: providing a preformhaving first and second end portions with a curved mid-portiontherebetween. The preform is formed from an elastomer which is normallyfree of spring-like characteristics and has an initial predeterminedlength defined by a longitudinal distance between the first and secondend portions. The elastomer from which the member is formed also has amolecular structure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elasticstrain greater than 1.5 to 1. The method further comprises the step of:working the preform so as to orient the molecular structure of theelastomer in at least one direction while transmuting the member intothe desired compression spring.

Preferably, the step of working the preform includes the step of:longitudinally compressing the initial predetermined length of theelongated member by greater than about 30% to about 35% so as to orientthe molecular structure of the elastomer, along at least themid-portion, of the preform while facilitating the transmutation of thepreform into the desired compression spring. The step of working thepreform can also include the step of: longitudinally stretching theinitial predetermined length of said preform by greater than about 30%to about 35% so as to orient the molecular structure of the elastomer,along at least the mid-portion thereof, while facilitating thetransmutation of the preform into a curved compression spring.

According to another aspect, there is provide an alternative, butequally applicable, method of making a compression spring comprising thesteps of: providing a preform having a free ended and elongated tubularshape with first and second radially spaced and generallycylindrical-like surfaces. An initial predetermined distance of thepreform is defined by the first surface on the preform. The preform iscreated from an elastomer which is normally free of spring-likecharacteristics and has a molecular structure along with a ratio ofplastic strain to elastic strain greater than 1.5 to 1. The processfurther involves the Step of: working the preform in a predeterminedradial direction more than about 35% of the initial predetermineddistance defined by the first surface of the preform so as to orient themolecular structure of the elastomer in at least one direction throughpredetermined sections of the preform defining spring sections. The nextStep involves removing at least one spring section from the radiallycompressed preform along a plane extending generally parallel to thepredetermined radial direction the preform was compressed. Each springsection has first and second longitudinally spaced end portions joinedby an arcuate mid-portion. The next Step in the process involvesdividing each spring section into individual compression springs. Eachcompression spring has a predetermined width and a predeterminedlongitudinal distance between opposed end portions of the spring whichare joined by an arcuate mid-portion.

The Step of working the preform includes the Step of: radiallycompressing the initial predetermined distance of the preform by greaterthan about 30% to about 35% so as to orient the molecular structure ofsaid elastomer in predetermined sections of the preform. Moreover, theThe Step of working the preform includes the step of: radiallystretching the initial predetermined distance of said the preform bygreater than about 30% to about 35% so as to orient the molecularstructure of the elastomer in predetermined sections of the preform.

Based on the foregoing, the present invention provides an elastomericcompression spring having an arcuately shaped configuration betweenopposed free end portions thereof.

Another feature of the present invention relates to providing anelastomeric spring whose configuration can be modified to changeoperating characteristics of the elastomeric spring.

Still another feature of the present invention relates to a method formaking an elastomeric compression spring having an arcuately shapedconfiguration between opposed free ends thereof.

These and other features, aims and advantages of the present inventionwill become more readily apparent from the following drawings, detaileddescription and appended claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of one form of an elastomericcompression spring embodying principals of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the elastomeric spring shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the elastomeric spring shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of another form of elastomericcompression spring embodying principals of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the spring shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is an end view of the spring shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of another alternative form of anelastomeric spring embodying principals of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of another alternative form of anelastomeric spring embodying principals of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the spring shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an end view of the spring shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of still another alternative form ofan elastomeric spring embodying principals of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the spring shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is an end view of the spring shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a graphical representation of one method or process formaking any one of the elastomeric springs illustrated in FIGS. 1 through13;

FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of one form of a preform used duringthe process of making the elastomeric springs shown in FIGS. 1 through13;

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the preform shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an end view of the preform shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a graphical representation of an alternative method orprocess for making any one of the elastomeric springs illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 13;

FIG. 19 is an end view of another preform that can be used during theprocess of making the elastomeric springs shown in FIGS. 1 through 13;

FIG. 20 is a side elevational view of the preform illustrated in FIG.19;

FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration showing working of the preform shownin FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of the preform following workingthereof;

FIG. 23 is shows further working of the preform shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 24 is a schematic illustration showing the preform being dividedinto at least two elongated spring sections;

FIG. 25 is an end view of one of the elongated spring sections removedfrom the preform; and

FIG. 26 is a side view showing one of the elongated spring sectionsbeing divided into elastomeric compression springs.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in multipleforms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be describedpreferred embodiments of the invention, with the understanding thepresent disclosure sets forth exemplifications of the invention whichare not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodimentsillustrated and described.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer tolike parts throughout the several views, there is shown in FIGS. 1through 3 one form of a longitudinally elongated, elastomericcompression spring, generally identified by reference numeral 10,embodying principals of the present invention. As shown, spring 10defines a longitudinal axis 12 and has first and second axially aligned,longitudinally spaced end portions 14 and 16, respectively, joined by anarcuate or curved mid-portion 18. As shown in FIG. 1, spring 10 definesan operative distance OD between the longitudinally spaced end portions14 and 16.

As shown in FIG. 1, spring 10 defines a central axis 20 along withradially spaced, generally planar first and second surfaces 22 and 24,respectively, extending the length of the spring 10 and disposed toopposed sides of the central axis 20. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1, spring 10 has a substantially constant thickness between thefirst and second surfaces 22 and 24, respectively, and extending alongthe length of the spring 10. As such, spring 10 will yield apredetermined spring rate upon deflection of the compression spring 10.

Additionally, and in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3,spring 10 further includes a pair of transversely spaced sides 26 and 28extending the length of the spring 10. In the illustrated embodiment,the sides 26 and 28 extend generally parallel relative to each other andgenerally parallel to the longitudinal axis 12 of spring 10.

Another embodiment of a spring embodying principals of the presentinvention is illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 6. This alternative form ofelastomeric spring is designated generally by reference numeral 110. Theelements of this alternative form of spring that are identical orfunctionally analogous to those components or elements of spring 10discussed above are designated generally by reference numerals identicalto those used above with the exception this embodiment of elastomericspring uses reference numerals in the 100 series.

Spring 110 defines a longitudinal axis 112 (FIG. 5) with axiallyaligned, longitudinally spaced end portions 114 and 116 joined by anarcuate or curved mid-portion 118. As shown in FIG. 4, spring 110 alsodefines an operative distance or length OD between the longitudinallyspaced end portions 114 and 116. The elongated spring 110 furtherdefines a central axis 120 (FIG. 4) with first and second radiallyspaced surfaces 122 and 124, respectively, extending along the length ofthe spring 110, and disposed to opposed sides of the central axis 120.

Spring 110 further includes a pair of sides 126 and 128. In theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 6, the sides 126, 128 ofspring 110 extend generally parallel relative to each other andgenerally parallel to the longitudinal axis 114 of spring 110.

To enhance its versatility, one of the many advantages afforded by thespring design of the present invention relates to the ability to changethe spring rate provided by the elastomer spring while keeping theoperative distance or length OD of the spring 110 substantially equal tothat of spring 10 by modifying the cross-sectional design orconfiguration of the mid-portion 118 of the spring. In the form shown inFIGS. 4 through 6, the mid-portion 118 of spring 110 is provided withone or more areas of varying cross-sectional thickness.

To effect such ends, spring 110 can include a series of throughbores orchannels 140, 142, 144, 146 and 148 which, in one form, have varyingdiameters and extend transversely through the mid-portion 118 of thespring 110 to open to opposed sides 126, 128 of spring 110. As shown,each bore or channel 140 through 148 has a closed marginal edge 143defined between surfaces 122 and 124 of the mid-portion 118 of spring110. Of course, it should be appreciated, elongated arcuate channels orthe like, of varying sizes, can likewise be substituted for theillustrated bores 140, 142, 144, 146 and 148 without detracting ordeparting from the spirit and scope of the present invention. As will beappreciated, the mid-portion 118 of spring 110, with its variablecross-section, will advantageously permit spring 110 to yield a springrate or load deflection curve different from spring 10 while having thesame operative length OD as spring 10.

Another embodiment of a spring embodying principals of the presentinvention is illustrated in FIG. 7. This alternative form of elastomericspring is designated generally by reference numeral 210. The elements ofthis alternative form of spring that are identical or functionallyanalogous to those components or elements of spring 10 discussed aboveare designated generally by reference numerals identical to those usedabove with the exception this embodiment of elastomeric spring usesreference numerals in the 200 series.

Spring 210 includes axially aligned, longitudinally spaced end portions214 and 216 joined by an arcuate or curved mid-portion 218. As shown,spring 210 defines a central axis 220 with first and second radiallyspaced surfaces 222 and 224, respectively, extending along the length ofspring 210, and arranged to opposed sides of a central axis of spring210. As shown in FIG. 7, spring 210 defines an operative distance orlength OD between the longitudinally spaced end portions 214 and 216.

Advantageously, the spring rate or operating characteristics of spring210 can be changed by modifying the cross-sectional design orconfiguration of the mid-portion 218 of the spring 210 while keeping theoperative length OD of spring 210 the same as spring 10. In the formshown in FIG. 7, the mid-portion 218 of the spring 210 is provided witha varying cross-sectional thickness. As shown, and proximately midlengthof the mid-portion 218, spring 210 is formed with a cross-sectional,generally longitudinally centralized area 225 wherein the elastomermaterial between the radially spaced surfaces 222 and 224 is thinnerthan in other areas of the mid-portion 218 disposed in longitudinallyspaced relation from the midlength of the mid-portion 218 of spring 210.In the illustrated embodiment, the thinner cross-sectional area 225 ofthe mid-portion 218 extends transversely across the width of spring 210.As should be appreciated, the mid-portion 218 of spring 210, with athinner cross-sectional configuration arranged proximately midlength ofthe mid-portion 218, will advantageously permit spring 210 to yield aspring rate or load deflection curve different from spring 10 whilespring 210 will have the same operative distance or length between theend portions 214, 216 as does spring 10.

Another embodiment of a spring embodying principals of the presentinvention is illustrated in FIGS. 8 through 10. This alternative form ofelastomeric spring is designated generally by reference numeral 310. Theelements of this alternative form of spring that are identical orfunctionally analogous to those components or elements of spring 10discussed above are designated generally by reference numerals identicalto those used above with the exception this embodiment of elastomericspring uses reference numerals in the 300 series.

Spring 310 defines a longitudinal axis 312 (FIG. 9) and axially aligned,longitudinally spaced end portions 314 and 316 joined by an arcuatemid-portion 318. Spring 10 defines a central axis 320 with radiallyspaced, generally planar first and second surfaces 322 and 324,respectively, extending the length of the spring 310 and disposed toopposed sides of the central axis 320. Spring 310 also includes a pairof sides 326 and 328 each extending the length thereof As shown in FIG.8, spring 310 also defines an operative distance or length OD betweenthe longitudinally spaced end portions 314 and 316.

The illustration of the elastomeric spring 310 in FIGS. 8 through 10 isanother example of how the operating characteristics of the spring canbe changed by modifying the design of the mid-portion 318 of the spring310. In the form shown in FIGS. 8 through 10, the mid-portion 318 of thespring 310 is provided with varying widths along the length thereof.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 through 10, the transversewidth of the elastomer material forming the mid-portion 318 of spring310, i.e., the amount of elastomer between the sides 326, 328 of spring310 changes as a function of the longitudinal distance measured fromproximately midlength of the mid-portion 318 toward either end portion314, 316. As shown in FIGS. 8 through 10, spring 310 is formed with anarrower width and, thus, a reduced amount of elastomer material,between the sides 326, 328 proximately midlength of the mid-portion 318than are other widthwise areas between the sides 326, 328 longitudinallyspaced from proximately midlength of the mid-portion 318. As such, thereduced amount of elastomer toward the longitudinal central area of themid-portion 318 will yield a different spring rate or operatingcharacteristic than the wider areas of elastomer material does in thoseareas disposed in longitudinally spaced relation from proximate themidlength of the mid-portion 318 of spring 310. Preferably, thereduction of elastomer material toward the midlength of the mid-portion318 of spring 312 is substantially equalized toward opposed sides 326,328 relative to the longitudinal axis 312 of spring 310. As such, theelastomer spring 310 will tend to be free of twists and “S-ing” duringoperation of the spring 310. The mid-portion 318 of spring 310, with anarrowed configuration arranged proximately midlength of the mid-portionthereof, will advantageously permit spring 310 to yield a spring rate orload deflection curve different from spring 10.

Still another embodiment of a spring embodying principals of the presentinvention is illustrated in FIGS. 11 through 13. This alternative formof elastomeric spring is designated generally by reference numeral 410.The elements of this alternative form of spring that are identical orfunctionally analogous to those components or elements of spring 10discussed above are designated generally by reference numerals identicalto those used above with the exception this embodiment of elastomericspring uses reference numerals in the 400 series.

Spring 410 defines a longitudinal axis 412 (FIG. 12) and has first andsecond axially aligned, longitudinally spaced end portions 414 and 416,respectively, joined by an arcuate mid-portion 418. Spring 410 defines acentral axis 420 along with radially spaced, generally planar first andsecond surfaces 422 and 424, respectively, extending the length of thespring 410 and disposed to opposed sides of the central axis 420. Asshown in FIG. 12, spring 410 also defines an operative distance orlength OD between the longitudinally spaced end portions 414 and 416.Spring 410 also includes a pair of sides 426 and 428 each extending thelength of member 410.

The elastomeric spring 410 shown in FIGS. 11 through 13 is anotherexample of how the operating characteristics of the elastomer spring canbe changed by modifying the design or configuration of the mid-portion418 of the spring 410. As best shown in FIG. 12, the mid-portion 318 ofthe spring 310 is provided with varying widths along the length thereof.

As shown in FIG. 12, the transverse dimension of the elastomer materialbetween the sides 426 and 428 in the mid-portion 418 of spring 410changes as a function of the longitudinal distance measured fromproximately midlength of the mid-portion 418 toward either end portion414, 416. In the exemplary embodiment, spring 410 is formed with a widertransverse width and, thus, an increased amount of elastomer, betweenthe sides 426, 428 proximately midlength of the mid-portion 418 than areother transverse areas between the sides 426, 428 longitudinally spacedfrom proximately midlength of the mid-portion 418. As such, theincreased amount of elastomer disposed toward the longitudinal centralarea of the mid-portion 418 will offer a different operatingcharacteristic than the narrowing amount of elastomer material disposedin longitudinally spaced relation from proximate the midlength of themid-portion 418 of spring 410.

Preferably, the increase in elastomer material proximately midlength ofthe mid-portion 418 of spring 410 is substantially equalized on opposedsides 426, 428 relative to the longitudinal axis 412 of spring 310. Assuch, the elastomer spring 410 will tend to be free of twists and“S-ing” during operation of the spring 410. The mid-portion 418 ofspring 410, with a narrowed configuration arranged proximately midlengthof the mid-portion thereof, will advantageously permit spring 410 toyield a spring rate or load deflection curve different from spring 10.

Although not shown, it should be appreciated, any of the embodiments ofthe elastomeric spring shown and described above can further include aneye section arranged toward each free end portion of the spring.Preferably, each eye section defines a throughbore or opening extendingtransverse to the longitudinal axis of the spring. As will beappreciated, each eye section can be formed integral with theelastomeric spring or can be formed as an attachment thereto withoutdetracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

FIG. 14 schematically illustrates one method or process for making anyof the elastomeric curved compression springs shown and described above.At Step 500, a monolithic preform, generally identified in FIGS. 15through 17 by reference numeral 610 is provided. According to thismethod of making the elastomeric spring, preform 610 has a configurationsimilar to the desired resultant shape of the desired elastomericspring. That is, the preform 610 is initially fabricated with thedesired shape and/or operational characteristics of the resultantspring.

As shown, preform 610 includes a longitudinal axis 612 (FIG. 16) and hasfirst and second axially aligned, longitudinally spaced end portions 614and 616, respectively, joined by a mid-portion 618. Preferably, theelongated preform 610 defines a central axis 620 with a curved surface622 and a curved surface 624 disposed in radially spaced relation fromsurface 622. Each surface 622, 624 extends the length of the preform610, and is disposed to opposed sides of the central axis 620. As shownin FIG. 15, an initial predetermined distance PD separates the endportions 616, 618 of the preform 610. Suffice it to say, opposed sides626 and 628 of the preform 610 substantially conform in shape to thesides of the desired resultant spring.

The preform 610 can be formed of almost any elastomer having tensilecharacteristics such that the ratio of plastic strain to elastic strainis greater than 1.5 to 1. The preferred elastomer is a copolyesterpolymer elastomer manufactured and sold by E. I. duPont de Nemoirs underthe trademark Hytrel®. The elastomeric material has a molecularstructure and preform 610 has a Shore D durometer hardness rangingbetween about 37 and 57 durometer. The most preferred embodiment ofpreform 610 has a Shore D durometer measuring between about 40 and about55. The elastomer material forming preform 610 is normally free ofspring-like characteristics and is reasonably inert. Significantly, suchelastomer is quite durable and has an excellent flex life. Moreover,such elastomer is not subject to tearing or to crack propagation even inrelatively thin cross-sections. As known, conventional thermosettingsynthetic and natural rubbers do not have the requisite fatigueresistance at these hardness levels. For a more complete description ofthis elastomer, attention is directed to U.S. Pat. No. 4,198,037 to D.G. Anderson; applicable portions of which are incorporated herein byreference.

Normally, the selected elastomer material is purchased in pellet form,and is injected or extruded into a mold to form the preform 610. Variousplastic molding techniques such as melt casting, injection molding,rotational molding, etc, can be used to fabricate the preform 610.

After the preform 610 is formed, the preform 610 is worked, at Step 502(FIG. 14), in manner orienting the molecular structure of the elastomermaterial. That is, at process Step 502, the molecular structure of theelastomer material forming the preform 610 is oriented, in at least themid-portion of the preform, and in at least one direction, such that apredetermined spring rate is imparted to and transmutes the preform 610into an elongated and curved elastomeric spring.

The phrase or term “working” or “worked” means and refers tocontrollably manipulating the preform 610 after it is formed. Morespecifically, and in accordance with one spring forming method, afterthe preform 610 is fabricated, and at process Step 504, the preform'sopposed end portions 614 and 616 are longitudinally compressed towardeach other by a distance greater than 30% to 35% of the preform'sinitial predetermined length PD (FIG. 15). The longitudinal compressionof the preform 610 causes the molecular structure of the elastomerdisposed between the central axis 620 and the first surface 622,generally referred to as a compression area 623 (FIG. 15), to orient inat least one direction, at least along the mid-portion 618 of thepreform 610, whereby resulting in transmutation of the preform 610 intoa compression spring.

Notably, during it's initial formation, the mid-portion 618 of preform610 is preferably configured with an arcuate or curved design so as tolikely reduce the degree of twisting or S-ing” as the preform 610 isworked. It should be appreciated, however, the mid-portion 618 of thepreform 610 can be initially designed with a generally linear orstraight configuration with other suitably directed forces beingimparted to the mid-portion 618 of the preform 610 to effect apredetermined bending movement of the mid-potion 618 as the preform 610is worked to transmute the preform 610 into a curved elastomeric spring.

Upon release of the longitudinal compression of the preform 610, theresultant spring takes a compression spring shape “set”, i.e., similarto that illustrated in any of the FIGS. 1 through 13, with apredetermined operative distance OD between the end portions of theparticular spring. As will be appreciated, the predetermined operativedistance or length OD between the end portions of the resultant spring,after the preform 610 is worked, is prescribed by the space enveloperequirements of the particular application with which the spring will beoperably used. After the preform 610 is worked, the resultant spring issubstantially free of compression set problems within the range ofinitial compression and, upon subsequent compressions, that is, when theend portions of the resultant spring are maintained in substantiallyfixed relation relative to each other and a force or load is exertedupon the apex of the mid-portion thereof, the resultant spring willprovide a repeatable and substantially constant spring rate and willconstantly return or spring back to the desired shape. In part, the“spring back” characteristics, as well as the spring ratecharacteristics of the resultant spring are the result of theorientation of the molecules of Hytrel® resulting from “working” of thepreform 610.

According to one method, and at Step 506 (FIG. 14), after the preform610 initially formed, the opposed end portions 614 and 616 of thepreform 610 can be longitudinally pulled or stretched away from eachother by a distance greater than 30% to 35% of the initial predeterminedlength PD (FIG. 15) of the preform 610. Longitudinally stretching orpulling the preform end portions 614, 616 in opposed directions causesthe molecular structure of the elastomer disposed between the centralaxis 620 and the second surface 624, generally referred to as tensionarea 627 (FIG. 15), to become oriented in at least one direction, atleast along the mid-portion 618 of the preform 610, whereby furtherfacilitating the transmutation of the preform 610 into a compressionspring.

Upon release of the longitudinal stretch or pulling force on the preform610, the resultant spring takes a compression spring shape “set”, i.e.,similar to that illustrated in any of the FIGS. 1 through 13, with apredetermined operative distance OD between the end portions of theparticular spring. As such, the resultant compression spring is free ofcompression set problems and, upon subsequent compressions, that is,when the end portions of the spring are maintained in substantiallyfixed relation relative to each other and a force or load is exertedupon the apex of the mid-portion thereof, the resultant spring willprovide a repeatable and substantially constant spring rate and willconstantly return or spring back to the desired shape. In part, the“spring back” characteristics, as well as the spring ratecharacteristics of the spring result from the orientation of themolecules of Hytrel® resulting from “working” of the preform 610.

Of course, the process of working the preform 610 can include processSteps 504 and 506 either individually or in combination or in reverseorder relative to each other without detracting or departing from thepresent invention. That is, and during working of the preform 610, andafter the opposed end portions 614 and 616 have been compressed relativeto each other, the predetermined operative distance or length OD of theresultant spring may require correction. Accordingly, the end portionsof the spring can thereafter be stretched or pulled in opposeddirections to accomplish the desired operative length or spacing ODbetween the opposed ends of the compression spring. Similarly, andduring working of the preform 610, and after the opposed end portionshave been stretched or pulled relative to each other, the predeterminedoperative distance OD between the opposed ends of the resultant springmay require correction. Accordingly, the end portions can thereafter becompressed toward each other to accomplish the desired ends includingthe desired spacing OD between the opposed ends of the spring.

FIG. 18 schematically illustrates another method or process for makingany of the elongated elastomeric compression springs shown and describedabove. As shown in FIG. 18, this alternative process begins at Step 700with providing a monolithic preform, generally identified in FIGS. 19and 20 by reference numeral 810. According to this alternative method ofmaking an elastomeric compressions spring, preform 810 has a free endedand elongated tubular-like configuration. The elastomeric materialcomprising the preform 810 has a central axis 820 between the first andsecond radially spaced, generally cylindrical-like or curved surfaces822 and 824, respectively. As used herein, the term “central axis” meansand refers that line that bisects any arcuate portion of the preform810. As shown, the preform 810 has an initial predetermined diameter orsize PD defined by the second surface 824 thereof Notably, the initialpredetermined diameter or size PD of the preform 810 will have a directcorrelation to the desired operative distance or length OD betweenopposed end portions of the desired for the resultant elongatedcompression spring.

The preform 810 is fabricated from substantially the same elastomericmaterial as preform 610 described above. Suffice it to say, theelastomeric material used to form the preform 810 has a molecularstructure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elastic strain greaterthan 1.5 to 1.

After the preform 810 is formed or fabricated, the preform 810 is workedat process Step 702 (FIG. 18) in a manner orienting the molecularstructure of the elastomer material in a particular fashion. That is, atprocess Step 702 the molecular structure of the elastomer materialforming the preform 810 is oriented in a predetermined fashion andacross predetermined areas of the preform 810.

More specifically, and in accordance with an alternative spring makingprocess, after the preform 810 is fabricated, and at Step 704, thepreform 810 is controllably manipulated as by squeezing or compressingthe preform 810 within a press P and in a predetermined radialdirection, indicated by arrow 812, by more than 30% to 35% of theinitial predetermined outer diameter PD defined by the outer surface 826of the preform 810. The radial compression of the preform 810 causes themolecular structure of the elastomer disposed between the central axis820 and the first surface 822, generally referred to as a compressionarea 823 (FIG. 21), to orient in at least one direction.

After the preform 810 is radially compressed at process Step 704, thepreform 810 is removed from the press P it takes a compression springshape or “set” similar to that illustrated in FIG. 22. As worked, thepreform 810 is free of compression set problems and, upon subsequentcompressions, that is, when the preform is again radially compressed,the preform will provide a repeatable and substantially constant springrate and will constantly return or spring back to the shape illustratedin FIG. 22. In part, the “spring back” characteristics, as well as thespring rate characteristics of the preform 810 are the result of theorientation of the molecules of Hytrel® resulting from “working” of thepreform 810 at process Step 702.

According to this alternative method of making an elongated compressionspring, and at process Step 706, after the preform 810 is initiallyformed, the preform 810 can be radially pulled or stretched in opposeddirections and in the direction of the arrow 812 as shown in FIG. 23 bya distance greater than 30% to 35% of the predetermined size or diameterPD of the preform 810. Radially stretching or pulling the preform 810causes the molecular structure of the elastomer disposed between thecentral axis 820 and the second surface 824, generally referred to astension area 827 (FIG. 23), to become oriented in at least onedirection.

After the preform 810 is radially stretched at Step 706, the preform 810returns to a compression spring shape or “set”. As worked, preform 810is free of compression set problems and, upon subsequent compressions,that is, when the preform is again radially compressed, the preform willprovide a repeatable and substantially constant spring rate and willconsistently return or spring back to a predetermined shape. In part,the “spring back” characteristics, as well as the spring ratecharacteristics of preform 810 are the result of the orientation of themolecules of elastomer resulting from “working” of the preform 810 atprocess Step 702.

It should be appreciated, the process of working the preform 810 caninclude the working Steps 704 and 706 either individually or incombination or in reverse order relative to each other withoutdetracting or departing from the invention. That is, after preform 810has been compressed at process Step 704, certain areas of the preform810 to be used as springs may not have the desired predeterminedoperative distance or length OD for the desired spring, and thus, the“worked” size of the preform may require correction. Accordingly, thepreform can thereafter be stretched or pulled in opposed directions toaccomplish the desired operative length or spacing OD across thosepredetermined areas to be used as springs. Similarly, and after thepreform has been stretched, the resultant shape may not have the desiredpredetermined operative distance OD for the desired spring and, thus,the “worked” size of the preform may require correction. Accordingly,the worked preform can be thereafter radially compressed to accomplishthe desired ends including the desired spacing OD across thosepredetermined areas to be used as springs.

Suffice it to say, after the preform has been worked, certainpredetermined areas of the preform are shaped such that elongatedcompression springs of the type described above can be derivedtherefrom. According to the process set forth in FIG. 18, and at Step708, predetermined lengthwise spring sections 810A and 810B (FIGS. 24)are removed from the worked preform 810.

At process Step 708, and depending upon the operative distance or lengthOD desired between the spaced end portions of the resultant spring afterpreform 810 is worked, the lengthwise spring sections 810A and 810B arecut, severed, sawed, sliced or otherwise removed from the worked preform810. It is important to note, however, the lengthwise spring sections810A and 810B are each removed from the preform 810 along a plane PLextending substantially parallel to the predetermined radial direction812 in which the preform 810 was worked. That is, the lengthwisesections 810A and 810B are each removed or cut from the preform 810along a plane PL extending substantially parallel to the predeterminedradial direction 812 in which the preform 810 was squeezed orcompressed.

The two resultant spring sections 810A and 810B are preferably the sameand, thus, only spring section 810A will be discussed in detail. Springsection 810A appears similar to that schematically illustrated in FIGS.25 and 26. As shown, spring section 810A has first and second axiallyaligned, longitudinally spaced end portions 814 and 816, respectively,joined by an arcuate or curved mid-portion 818. Spring 810A furtherdefines an operative distance or length OD between the longitudinallyspaced end portions 814 and 816. Spring 810A further defines a centralaxis 820 along with includes radially spaced, generally planar first andsecond surfaces 822 and 824, respectively, extending the length of thespring 810A and disposed to opposed sides of the central axis 820.

From an understanding of this process, it will be appreciated, workingof the elastomeric preform 810 as discussed above causes the molecularstructure of the elastomer material extending across at least themid-portion 818 of the spring section 810A and disposed between thecentral axis 820 and the first surface 822, generally referred to ascompression area 823, to become oriented in at least one direction. Theorientation of the molecular structure of the elastomer transmutes theotherwise normally spring-free elastomeric material into a compressionspring. Additionally, working of the elastomeric preform 810, asdiscussed above, causes the molecular structure of the elastomerextending across at least the mid-portion 818 of spring section 810A anddisposed between the central axis 820 and the second surface 824,generally referred to as tension area 827, to become oriented in atleast one direction whereby further facilitating transmutation of thespring section 810A into a compression spring. As mentioned, theorientation of the molecular structure of the elastomer transmutes theotherwise normally spring-free elastomeric material into a compressionspring.

As shown in FIG. 26, each spring section 810A and 810B, after havingbeen removed from the preform, has substantially the same length as thepreform 810. According to the process set forth in FIG. 18, and atprocess Step 710, each spring section 810A and 810B is ultimatelydivided into individual elastomeric springs by cutting, severing,sawing, slicing or otherwise removing the individual springs from thespring section 810A and 810B along one or more planes PL′, thus,defining each elongated spring with a predetermined width.

As will be appreciated, each resultant spring, particularly as a resultof working the preform 810 at process Steps 702, 704 and 706, is free ofcompression set problems and, upon subsequent compressions, that is,when the end portions of the spring are maintained in substantiallyfixed relation relative to each other and a force or load is exertedupon the apex of the mid-portion, the resultant spring will provide arepeatable and substantially constant spring rate and will constantlyreturn or spring back to the desired shape. In part, the “spring back”characteristics, as well as the spring rate characteristics of thespring result from the orientation of the molecules of Hytrel® resultingfrom “working” of the preform 810.

It will be appreciated, of course, Steps 708 and 710 in the abovedescribed process can be reversed relative to each other withoutdetracting or departing from the present invention.

Persons skilled in the art of compression spring design will discovermodifications of the subject elastomer preform, according to the abovedisclosure, will produce varying spring rates that satisfy substantiallyany desired end. Besides modifying the design of the elastomer preform,changes in the spring rate of the resultant spring invention can also bevaried by changing the operative distance or length OD between theopposed ends of the elastomer spring. Additionally, the resultantelastomer spring is quite durable and has an excellent flex life.Moreover, the resultant elastomer spring is generally not subject totearing or to crack propagation even when the mid-portion thereof hasrelatively thin cross-sections.

From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous modifications andvariations can be made and effected without departing or detracting fromthe true spirit and novel concept of the present invention. Moreover, itwill be appreciated, the present disclosure is intended to set forth anexemplification of the invention which is not intended to limit theinvention to the specific embodiment illustrated. Rather, thisdisclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all suchmodifications and variations as fall within the spirit and scope of theclaims.

1. An elastomeric spring having first and second longitudinally spacedfree end portions joined by a curved mid-portion, with said spring beingcreated from a preform formed from an elastomer which is normally freeof spring-like characteristics, and wherein the elastomer from whichsaid preform is created has a molecular structure along with a ratio ofplastic strain to elastic strain greater than 1.5 to 1, and with themolecular structure, extending along a lengthwise section of themid-portion of said spring, being oriented in at least one directionsuch that a predetermined spring rate is imparted to said preformwhereby transmuting said preform into said elastomeric spring
 2. Theelastomeric spring according to claim 1, wherein said spring has aspring rate which can be varied by adjusting the longitudinal distancebetween said first and second end portions.
 3. The elastomeric springaccording to claim 1, wherein the mid-portion of said spring has avariable cross-sectional thickness along the length thereof.
 4. Theelastomeric spring according to claim 1, wherein said elastomericpreform is defined by an arcuate segment having longitudinally spacedends along with radially spaced, generally planar first and secondsurfaces extending between said first and second end portions.
 5. Theelastomeric spring according to claim 1, wherein said elastomeric springfurther includes a pair of transversely spaced sides, and wherein atransverse distance between said sides toward the mid-portion of saidspring is different from a transverse distance between said sides at thefree end portions of said spring.
 6. The elastomeric spring according toclaim 1, wherein said elastomeric preform has an elongated cylindricalshape between opposed first and second ends thereof.
 7. The elastomericspring according to claim 6, wherein the molecular structure of saidpreform is oriented as a result of compression of said cylindricallyshaped preform in a predetermined radial direction.
 8. An elastomericspring created from an elastomeric preform which is normally free ofspring-like characteristics, with said preform having an initialpredetermined length defined by a longitudinal distance between firstand second end portions joined by a mid-portion, and with the elastomerforming said preform having a molecular structure along with a ratio ofplastic strain to elastic strain greater than 1.5 to 1, and wherein themolecular structure, extending along at least the mid-portion of saidpreform, is oriented as a result of longitudinally working the initialpredetermined length of said preform greater than about 30% to about 35%thereby allowing said preform to transmute into said elastomeric spring.9. The elastomeric spring according to claim 8 wherein, said spring hasa spring rate which can be varied by adjusting the distance between saidfirst and second end portions.
 10. The elastomeric spring according toclaim 8, wherein the mid-portion of said elongated member has a variablecross-sectional thickness along the length thereof.
 11. The elastomericspring according to claim 8, wherein said elastomeric spring furtherincludes a pair of transversely spaced sides, and wherein a transversedistance between said side toward the mid-portion of said spring isdifferent from a transverse distance between said sides at the free endsof said spring.
 12. The elastomeric spring according to claim 8, whereinworking of said preform involves longitudinally stretching the initialpredetermined length of said preform by greater than 35%.
 13. Theelastomeric spring according to claim 8, wherein working of said preforminvolves folding the preform by bringing the end portions of the preformtoward each other a distance sufficient to reduce the initialpredetermined length of said preform by greater than 35%.
 14. A curvedelastomeric spring having longitudinally spaced first and second endportions joined by an arcuate mid-portion and which is created from anelastomeric preform which is free of spring-like characteristics and hasa molecular structure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elasticstrain greater than 1.5 to 1, with said spring having a central axiswith a compression area disposed to one side of said axis and a tensionarea disposed to an opposed side of said axis, and wherein the molecularstructure of said spring is oriented, in at least one direction, as aresult of working said preform in a manner imparting spring-likecharacteristics to predetermined sections of said preform used to formsaid curved elastomeric spring.
 15. The elastomeric spring according toclaim 14, wherein said spring has a spring rate which can be varied bychanging the longitudinal distance between said first and second endportions.
 16. The elastomeric spring according to claim 14, wherein themid-portion of said spring has a variable cross-sectional thicknessalong the length thereof.
 17. The elastomeric spring according to claim14, wherein said elastomeric spring further includes a pair oftransversely spaced sides, and wherein a transverse distance betweensaid side toward the mid-portion of said spring is different from atransverse distance between said sides at the free ends of said spring.18. The elastomeric spring according to claim 14, wherein thelongitudinal distance between said end portions of said spring isgreater than the width of said spring at either end portion thereof. 19.The elastomeric spring according to claim 19, wherein said preform hasan initial predetermined length between opposed free ends thereof. 20.The elastomeric spring according to claim 19, wherein said preform hasan elongated tubular shape with inner and outer generallycylindrical-like surfaces extending between the opposed free endsthereof.
 21. The elastomeric spring according to claim 19, whereinworking of said preform involves longitudinally stretching the initialpredetermined length of said preform by greater than 35% so as to orientthe molecular structure of said elastomer in at least one of saidcompression area and said tension area on said elastomeric spring. 22.The elastomeric spring according to claim 19, wherein working of saidpreform involves longitudinally compressing the initial predeterminedlength of said preform by greater than 35% so as to orient the molecularstructure of said elastomer in at least one of said compression area andsaid tension area on said elastomeric spring.
 23. A method of making acurved compression spring comprising the steps of: providing amonolithic preform having first and second end portions with a curvedmid-portion therebetween, with said preform being formed from anelastomer which is normally free of spring-like characteristics, andwith said preform having a initial predetermined length defined by alongitudinal distance between first and second end portions, and whereinthe elastomer from which said preform is formed has a molecularstructure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elastic strain greaterthan 1.5 to 1; working said preform so as to orient the molecularstructure of said elastomer in at least one direction while transmutingsaid preform into said compression spring.
 24. The method according toclaim 23, wherein the step of longitudinally working said preformincludes the step of: longitudinally compressing the initialpredetermined length of said preform by greater than 35% so as to orientthe molecular structure of said elastomer along at least the mid-portionof said preform while facilitating the transmutation of said preforminto said compression spring.
 25. The method according to claim 23,wherein the step of longitudinally working said member includes the stepof: longitudinally stretching the initial predetermined length of saidpreform by greater than 35% so as to orient the molecular structure ofsaid elastomer along at least the mid-portion of said preform whilefacilitating the transmutation of said preform into said compressionspring.
 26. A method of making a compression spring comprising the stepsof: providing a preform having a free ended and elongated tubular shapewith first and second radially spaced and generally cylindrical-likesurfaces, with an initial predetermined distance being defined by thefirst surface of said preform, with said preform being formed from anelastomer which is normally free of spring-like characteristics and amolecular structure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elasticstrain greater than 1.5 to 1; working said preform in a predeterminedradial direction more than 35% of the initial predetermined distancedefined by the first surface of said preform so as to orient themolecular structure of said elastomer in at least one direction throughpredetermined sections of said preform defining spring sections;removing at least one spring section from said radially compressedpreform along a plane extending generally parallel to the predeterminedradial direction said preform was compressed, with each spring sectionhaving first and second longitudinally spaced end portions joined by anarcuate mid-portion; and dividing each spring section into individualcompression springs, with each compression spring having a predeterminedwidth and a predetermined longitudinal distance between opposed ends ofsaid spring.
 27. The method of making a compression spring according toclaim 26, wherein the step of working said preform includes the step of:radially compressing the initial predetermined distance of said preformby greater than 35% so as to orient the molecular structure of saidelastomer in predetermined sections of said preform.
 28. The method ofmaking a compression spring according to claim 26, wherein the step ofworking said preform includes the step of: radially stretching theinitial predetermined distance of said preform by greater than 35% so asto orient the molecular structure of said elastomer in predeterminedsections of said preform.